Jose Mourinho has reportedly been constantly texting Marco Verratti as he strives to lure the midfielder to Manchester United.

It emerged on Sunday that United are preparing a massive £79million offer for the PSG star but it is also suggested that the Portuguese's pursuit of the Italian started earlier.

French radio station Europe1 is of the understanding that Mourinho is so determined to sign Verratti that he has been sending him frequent text messages in a bid to lure him to Old Trafford.

Verratti, who will miss Euro2016 with a groin injury, is contracted with PSG until 2020 and would certainly not come cheap to the Red Devils if Mourinho is successful in his chase for the 23-year-old playmaker.